A Five Letter Word

As many of you know, my dad has been in a lot of pain recently. What we thought was just simply back pain and stomach bug, has now turned into something that I never saw coming. That six letter word that no one wants to hear from the doctor. That word that seems synonymous with short life, suffering, and death. That word that cuts deep in the heart because probably everyone you know has known someone or has suffered through it themselves. That word that you think "will never happen to you".

cancer.

It's weird to actually verbalize it now and say to people "my dad has cancer." Those are literally the last words I thought I would say about my dad; always paying attention to what he puts in his body, taking care of himself.

My dad has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer that has spread to the liver. The mass in his body can be felt just by touching his abdomen. 10-11 cm. Yeah, I know. crazy. And all this happened during 'Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month' of all times...

I wasn't quite sure how my dad would feel about chemotherapy, but in my heart of hearts I was hoping that he would choose to fight it and see what happens. Thankfully, after meeting with Dr. #2, (who is a God-send by the way) he suggested a form of chemo that is 'easier' on the body. I literally cannot imagine what chemotherapy is like, at all, but my dad heard him talk about it, and said "sign me up!"

I am grateful that my dad is wanting to fight this. And I want him to know that we will be fighting this with him with prayer and fasting.

Beyond all things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Colossians 3:14

May my prayer be counted as incense before You; the lifting up of my hands as the evening offering. Psalm 141:2

Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice! Philippians 4:4

And if I am honest with you, I am doing well. It is a day-by-day thing, but I have never felt so much love and support and encouragement from friends and family. God has so richly blessed me beyond what I could ever imagine. And I know, without a doubt, no matter what the outcome is, God loves my dad. He loves my family. And He loves me.

Because the Lord is near the brokenhearted.

Because the Lord comforts those who mourn.

Because the Lord is quick to show compassion.

Because the Lord heals all diseases.

Because the Lord works all things for our good and His glory.

Because the Lord thinks about us literally all.the.time.

Because the Lord is with us.

Because the Lord brings peace that passes all understanding.

Because He loves us.

Because He has overcome the world.

Because He is coming back some day and it's going to be totally awesome beyond words.

And I can trust in His promises.

That six letter word has no power over my dad. Over my family. Over my attitude and outlook on life. But there is a word that does have power. A word that comes from Christ alone. A word the world so greatly desires to achieve. A word that speaks volumes of the goodness and love of God. A word that comes from giving it all over to the One that is in control.

PEACE.

Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. John 14:27

And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

hopeful, trusting, and still making a joyful noise,
lisa